Structural and Dynamic Process Family Risk Factors: Consequences for Holistic Adolescent Functioning

Abstract

This study utilized a dynamic cumulative family risk model to explain changes in adolescent functioning. We used a person‐centered approach to detect patterns of academic, emotional, and behavioral functioning and the stability of these patterns using two waves of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health ( N = 10,173). Four adjustment profiles emerged at both time points. Although most (91%) adolescents remained in the same classifications at both waves, some experienced shifts in functioning. Changes in family process risk factors predicted these shifts in adjustment, whereas changes in structural risk factors predicted stable adjustment. We concluded that even short‐term changes in family processes are significant sources of risk for some adolescents.